Leas Cliff Hall

Resolutely calling itself a hall, this may be regarded as a theatre. Although designed in 1913 it was not built until 1927. It is a four storey building, reinforced concrete-framed with brick infill, and partly faience faced, with iron balconies. It is set into the side of the cliffs, at the top of which is the parade known as The Leas. The box-office building on the Leas was replaced in 1980 by one which resembles a pagoda. A fine double staircase leads down to the hall. A balcony runs around three sides. Moveable stalls seats on a polished, sprung dance floor. There are sightline problems because the hall is about twice as wide as it is deep, the stage being in the middle of the longer wall, opposite the staircase. A variable sized proscenium arch can be created and rostra are available to provide forestages of differing sizes. Backstage there is a bandroom, rehearsal room, green room and six dressing rooms.

At the time of writing there are plans to extend and refurbish the building.